That the oceanic crust is geologically young and the parallel magnetic striping pattern of basalts is symmetrical about oceanic ridges was conclusively shown by what?
A) radiometric dating of oceanic basalts and sequences from continents
B) the unusually thin layer of oceanic sediments and ages of contained fossils
C) the existence of the same magnetic anomaly patterns in all ocean basins
D) radiometric dating of oceanic basalts and sequences from continents AND the unusually thin layer of oceanic sediments and ages of contained fossils
E) all of these

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Radiometric dating of oceanic basalts and sequences from continents have provided evidence for the young age of oceanic crust, while the thin layer of oceanic sediments and ages of contained fossils have further supported this conclusion. Additionally, the symmetrical magnetic anomaly patterns in all ocean basins indicate that the oceanic crust is being constantly created at mid-ocean ridges and moving away in opposite directions, resulting in the parallel striping pattern. Therefore, the correct answer is D, as both radiometric dating and sedimentary evidence support the young age of oceanic crust, while magnetic anomaly patterns support the concept of seafloor spreading.

That the Oceanic Crust Is Geologically Young and the Parallel